11 tips for glowing skin

Water forms an essential part in our body. It is becomes important to consume water not just to quench our thirst but also to let our body function properly. Water plays a vital role i digestion, blood circulation, absorption of nutrients and elimination of toxins. The body uses water to help heal from damage or disease, and to maintain a youthfulness and vitality that will help to carry you into old age in robust health. 
Even just a 5 percent drop in bodily fluids is likely to lower your energy levels. Water is necessary for every organ in the body to function, including the skin. The skin is in fact the largest organ in the body and just like all other organs, the skin is made up of cells that are made up of, you guessed it, water. Without proper hydration, the quality and appearance of your skin is bound to suffer. The skin has its own natural mechanisms to maintain correct hydration levels, yet it is very easy for skin moisture levels to drop due to external factors.

Excessive heat, pollution and air conditioning all affect skin moisture levels, while lifestyle habits such as alcohol, tobacco, coffee and poor nutrition can all have detrimental effects on the skin’s natural defenses, making it less resilient and more susceptible to irritation.

When moisture evaporates through the skin, it leaves your skin looks dull, tight, taut, scaly and shiny, and superficial lines, wrinkles and signs of premature ageing are more visible.

Below are eleven tips to let your skin stay hydrated and glowing 

1. Drink a large glass of water with fresh lemon juice 
2. You can even add orange, sweet lime. You may also flavour it up with mint leaves or lemon and basil. 
3. If you tend to forget, set an alarm in your phone. 
4. Make an effort to drink a glass of water at the first signs of thirst.
5. Pregnant and breastfeeding women also need more water per day than those who are not growing or nurturing a baby.
6. Keep an eye on your caffeine levels. Being a diuretic, drinking more than a couple of cups of coffee a day can be dehydrating on the body and can also be further detrimental to your skin. 
7. Alternating between alcoholic drinks and water is always a good idea. Like coffee, alcohol is damaging for the skin also.
   
8. Ditch the fancy over priced drinks when you’re out and opt for good old H2O. 
9. Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables especially watermelon, cucumbers, celery, leafy greens, and apples. And also light broths and soups, or yogurt and smoothies which are usually high in water content.
10. Herbal teas, sparkling water, cold pressed juices and natural coconut water will all help maintain and replenish body fluid levels.
11. Studies have shown that drinking a large glass of water before eating can help you to eat less and therefore may be beneficial for weight loss.